How to Use Frankincense Oil, Cream or Salve

Frankincense oil or frankincense cream can be applied directly to the skin. You can use the oil full strength or mix it into another oil or cream of your own. You can also use it as a spot treatment or spread it over a larger area. You may apply the oil or cream up to 3 or 4 times a day, as desired.

First, Choose Your Type

There are presently four varieties of frankincense topicals to choose from. They are all potent with plenty of great therapeutic benefits, but each has its own advantages. In many cases, it just boils down to personal preference.  

➦ Premium Frankincense Oil 

70% boswellic acid extract in organic sesame oil for deepest tissue penetration; geared for adults for use below the neck

➦ Premium Frankincense Salve

Premium Frankincense Oil made into a salve with the addition of a little organic beeswax; handy for travel or if you are concerned about oil spilling/dripping

 ➦ Frankincense Oil "Gentle" 

35% boswellic acid extract in organic jojoba oil; geared for use on the face, for children, and for anyone with more sensitive skin

➦ Frankincense Cream

A rich, nourishing cream infused with 70% boswellic acid extract, geared for use by adults below the neck

Tips for Use on the Body

Any of the topicals can be used on the body. If you have sensitive skin, opt for the gentle oil. If you are unsure, you an always do a patch test with any of the products before applying it to a wider area. 

In order to use frankincense oil, salve or cream on broader areas (shoulder, knee, hip, back, etc.), spread it over the the affected area and massage in well, up to 3 or 4 times a day. Use as much as your skin will allow to soak in. For me, that amounts to about 1/2 teaspoon of oil for a shoulder or knee. You may want to apply it a little more generously at night and then cover the area with light cotton sleepwear or a t-shirt to protect your sheets from the oil. 

For the frankincense cream, you will be able to use a bit more because of its higher absorbability.

Relief from pain and inflammation is gradual and may take a few days to a couple of weeks.

Tips for Use on the Face

Frankincense Oil Gentle is the best option for the face. A few drops will be enough. Full facial coverage may be easier at night if you wear makeup during the day. Massage well into to clean, dry skin, avoiding the areas immediately around the eyes.

When to Discontinue

If you develop redness, itching, or any other signs of irritation, discontinue use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use frankincense oil on the face?

A frankincense oil made from whole frankincense resin is safe to use on the face. Frankincense essential oil should only be used when properly diluted in a carrier oil, such as jojoba. A whole resin oil will have far more skin benefits than essential oil because it contains the boswellic acids.

What is best, an oil or a salve?

Oils are generally better for treating broader areas, such as the hips or back, because they are easier to spread. Being thicker, salves are handy for smaller treatment areas, as well as being convenient when traveling, and for handbags, because they pack without spilling.

How often can frankincense oil be applied?

Frankincense oil can be safely applied 3 to 4 times a day. If you develop redness, itching, or any other signs of irritation, discontinue use.